Premier Panyaza Lesufi recently stated that non-functioning, dilapidated heritage sites “remain Gauteng government’s priority” and named Women’s Living Heritage Monument as one of these. This, however, is contradicted by the fact that this monument remains non-operational, closed to the public, and gradually deteriorating. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has already reported the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation (SACR) MEC, Matome Chiloane, to the Public Protector for failing to expedite the opening of this monument. We are currently waiting for the outcome of that investigation.
The DA uncovered the shocking state of the Women’s Living Heritage Monument during its recent reinspection. Despite being denied access to the precinct, with those on site claiming the building is under construction, we noticed that the paint on the walls is peeling, and the precinct is not well-kept. This raises concerns about the condition inside the building where the multi-million-rand statues of Rahima Moosa, Lillian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn are kept.
See photos here, here and here.
The Premier Lesufi-led government’s neglect of this monument, intended to honour women’s roles in South Africa’s liberation struggle, is a disgrace and clearly shows the provincial government’s lack of commitment to heritage preservation.
This monument should serve as a shining symbol of pride during Heritage Month, a space where our children can learn about the brave women who fought for our freedom, a springboard for small businesses to thrive, and a platform for job creation. Unfortunately, it stands as a R280 million white elephant, providing no benefits to those it was meant to serve.
This is not only a waste of taxpayers’ money, but also a profound disrespect shown to the legacies of the four legendary activists and countless other women whose sacrifices and struggles deserve far better than empty government promises. It also highlights the continued failure of infrastructure across Gauteng in places of historical interest.
As we conclude Heritage Month, we demand that Premier Lesufi and MEC Chiloane stop misleading our people by saying they are prioritising our heritage sites, when, in fact, they are neglecting them and exposing them to decay, theft and vandalism. The Women’s Living Heritage Monument must be fully operationalised immediately.
A DA-led Gauteng Provincial Government would have fast-tracked the opening of the monument. This would have unlocked jobs, boosted tourism, and preserved the legacy of our heroines.